Dr. Earl H. Godfrey Jr.

Professor Emeritus of Accounting

A respected educator, accountant, administrator, and mentor, Dr. Earl H. Godfrey Jr. dedicated his life to helping others learn, grow, and succeed. Born on June 11, 1954, he was the son of the late Dr. Earl H. Godfrey Sr. and Joan Simpson Godfrey. He served Gardner-Webb University for 34 years, helping shape the Godbold College of Business through his teaching, leadership, and commitment to student success. In March 2026, he was granted Professor Emeritus status, one of the University’s highest faculty honors. Less than two months later, on May 7, 2026, Godfrey passed away at the age of 71, leaving an enduring impact on the institution he loved and served so faithfully.

Widely respected for his expertise in accounting, his commitment to innovation, and his unwavering dedication to students, Godfrey helped shape the growth of the Godbold College of Business and played an instrumental role in expanding educational opportunities across the University.

A lifelong learner whose career combined academic achievement with professional expertise, Godfrey earned a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology with a minor in education from the University of South Carolina in Columbia, an Associate of Science degree in computer technology from Spartanburg (S.C) Technical College, a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies degree with a concentration in accounting from the University of South Carolina Spartanburg, a Master of Business Administration degree from Winthrop University in Rock Hill, S.C., and a Doctor of Business Administration degree with a concentration in accounting from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. He also earned designation as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in 1996 and Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) in 2013.

Before entering higher education, Godfrey gained valuable professional experience in accounting, technology, sales, and public health. He worked for Nestlé Corporation as both a computer operations manager and senior cost accountant and owned and operated Southern Software Inc. His broad professional background provided real-world insight that enriched his teaching and prepared students for successful careers in business and accounting.

Godfrey joined Gardner-Webb in 1988 as comptroller, managing the University’s business operations and financial processes. Four years later, he transitioned to the classroom as a professor of accounting, beginning what would become a decades-long commitment to educating future business leaders. Throughout his career, he taught virtually every course in the accounting curriculum at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, including auditing, taxation, cost accounting, advanced accounting, forensic accounting, accounting theory, and doctoral research courses.

Known by students and colleagues for his enthusiasm and dedication, Godfrey approached teaching as both a profession and a calling. In recommending him for emeritus status, Godbold College of Business Dean Dr. Mischia Taylor described him as “an educator in the truest sense,” noting that he “never missed an opportunity to teach, inspire, or challenge those around him.” She further observed that his approach combined “rigor with humility, patience with humor, and high expectations with genuine compassion.”

Godfrey’s influence extended far beyond the classroom. He played a pivotal role in the development of Gardner-Webb’s Master of Accountancy program and helped create specialized options in forensic accounting and taxation. He was passionate about equipping students not only for professional certification exams but also for successful careers across the accounting profession. The Master of Accountancy program continues to reflect the vision and leadership he provided during its development.

He was also instrumental in expanding access to higher education through technology. As director of Online Learning from 2002 to 2011, he helped establish policies, procedures, and quality standards that guided the University’s online initiatives. He taught Gardner-Webb’s first online course and helped develop academic programs that reached students well beyond the traditional campus setting. His leadership positioned the University as an early innovator in online and distance education and expanded opportunities for students across North Carolina and beyond.

Throughout his career, Godfrey held numerous leadership roles at Gardner-Webb, including director of Undergraduate Business Programs, director of GOAL Business Programs, director of Online Learning, chair of the Broyhill School of Management, and Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) Champion for the College of Business. He helped oversee business programs across multiple instructional sites, supported faculty development, and played a key role in accreditation efforts that strengthened the college’s academic reputation.

In addition to his service at Gardner-Webb, Godfrey contributed extensively to his profession through scholarship, presentations, and leadership in professional organizations. He presented nationally and internationally on accounting education, ethics, accreditation, technology, and student learning outcomes. He also held leadership positions with the ACBSP, including evaluator, treasurer and committee chair, helping advance quality business education.

Godfrey’s commitment to excellence earned widespread recognition throughout his career. He received the School of Business Teaching Award, Service Award, and Research Award, as well as Gardner-Webb University’s Graduate Faculty Member of the Year Award in 2016. Yet colleagues consistently remembered him not only for his achievements, but also for his character, generosity, and willingness to support others. Dean Taylor noted that he “possessed a remarkable ability to communicate with clarity and purpose” and that his stories were “always thoughtful, intentional, and ultimately meaningful to all who had the privilege of listening.”

Those who worked alongside Godfrey frequently described him as a servant leader who placed the University’s mission above personal interests. Dr. Anthony Negbenebor, professor of economics and international business and assistant vice president for Business Development and Partnerships, worked with Godfrey for more than 20 years. “Dr. Godfrey’s commitment went far beyond the call of duty,” he affirmed. “Whether in the classroom, the office, or informal moments of mentorship, he inspired those around him with a passion for learning and an unwavering belief in the potential of every student. Countless individuals have benefitted from his guidance, encouragement, and the genuine care he brought to every interaction.”

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Godfrey was known as a man of deep faith, integrity, compassion, and service. Godfrey’s enduring impact is evident in the generations of students he guided through his teaching, leadership, and mentorship.

Negbenebor added that his legacy lives not only in achievements recorded or milestones celebrated, but in the countless lives he touched and the spirit he instilled. “He reminded us that true dedication is measured not just by what we do, but by the love, patience, and integrity we bring to every endeavor,” Negbenebor asserted. “I honor Dr. Godfrey not only for his extraordinary contributions but for the kindness, generosity, and humanity that defined his life and work. He will forever remain a guiding light in our hearts and in the halls of the Godbold College of Business.”

Devoted to his family, Godfrey was married to Joan for 33 years. They had a son, Ryan Kyles; a daughter, Jennifer Spencer; and four grandchildren, Sydnee, Kellan, Harper, and Julian.

Sources: Interviews by Jackie Bridges, GWU files, Emeritus nomination letter by Dr. Mischia Taylor